Sri Nookambika Ammavari Temple

Sri Nookambika Ammavari Temple or Sri Nookallamma Ammavaari Devasthanamu, is a temple located in Gavarapalem in the municipality of Anakapalle near Vishakapatnam. The temple houses the goddess Nookambika. Sri Nookambica Ammavaru is one of the Nine Shakti forms and popularly known as Sri Anagha Devi in ancient days. After some years in the era of Kakatiya kings, the temple was renovated and the same goddess was worshiped with the name “SRI KAKATAMBA”. She would later be called Nookambika or Nookalamma. Daily Pujas and Deeparadhanas are performed here. As the kings lost their dynasties the daily pujas and other rituals were interrupted and slowly the temple again lost its previous glory. This town i.e., Anakapalli is named after Anagha devi. Approximately 450 years ago, in late 1611 AD, the Arcot Nawab appointed Sri Kakarlapudi Appalaraju as Diwan for the Anakapalli area. He renovated the temple and brought back past glory and the local goddess as Sri Nookambika Ammavaru.

It is believed that the creator of this whole universe was Sri Shakti Ammavaru and it took place in the time period from Palguna Bahula Amavasya (the new moon day) to April(new moon day). This period will be treated as the holy period any many rituals and pujas will be performed to Sri Nookambica Ammavaru here. Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday are considered auspicious days for performing puja to Sri Nookambika Ammavaru.

The Jatara festival is the temple fair starts on “Kotha Amavasya” the eve of the Telugu new year day and it continues for a period of one month. The jatara festival will be celebrated in the month of March or April every year. According to Telugu New years day (Ugadi). On the last day of the festival they celebrate a festival known as “Nela pandaga”. People from other countries such as Malaysia and Singapore also visit the temple in the large number to have the Darshan and blessings of the deity. Devotees visit the temple in large groups for nearly two to three months starting from the Kothamavasya day.

Other festivals like Vinayakachavithi , Sri Devi navaratrulu will be celebrated. Special poojas will be offered during the days of “Devinavaratrulu”. Mahalakshmi dharma pooja will be performed a day before Diwali, and Diwali is performed in a grand manner.On “Makara Sankranti” special poojas will be performed and poor feeding will take place after the poojas. The deity will be decorated every day as usual and on the auspicious days floral decoration takes place.

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Sri Jogulamba Temple

Sri Jogulamba Temple is located in Alampur village, Mahabubnagar District of Telangana State. While going to Kurnool from Hyderabad we have to turn left at Alampur cross-road (12k.m before reaching Kurnool). Alampur is at 12k.m distance from that spot. Alampur is a small village and the Jogulamba temple is located in the South-East corner of the village very beside Tungabhadra river.

Jogulamba (also called as Yogulamba / Yogamba) is one of the eighteen Shakti peethas. Oordhva danta pankti (Upper jaw with tooth) of devi fell here. She is the Shakti of Bala brahmeswara swamy. Alampur Jogulamba Mahadevi, Roudra Veekshana Loochana, Alampuri Sthita Mata, Sarvartha phala siddhida are other names of Yogulamba.

Alampur is the meeting point of the sacred rivers Tungabhadra and Krishna known as Navabrahmeshwara Theertha. The principal deities at Alampur are Brahmeshwara and Jogulamba. It is surrounded by the Nallamala hills. Alampur is named as town of temples and famed for its sculptures. Alampur temple of Nava brahmas and Kanchi Kamakshi temple are most important places in Alampur city.

History:
Alampur was under the rule of Shatavahana Ishvakus of Nagarjunakonda, Badami Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Kalyani Chalukyas, Kakatiyas, Vijayanagara Empire and Qutb Shahis of Golconda. Alampur was previously Known as Halampuram, Hamalapuram And Alampuram. Name of this place as Hatampura, mentioned in the inscription dated AD 1101 belongs to Western Chalukya Tribhuvanamalla Vikramaditya VI. The Alampur Navabhrama Temples are historically important and reflect remarkable architectural skills.

Jogulamba temple:
Old temple of Jogulamba was destroyed by Bahamani sultans in the 14th century. The idols of Jogulamba and her two shaktis Chandi, Mundi were protected from them and placed in Bala brahmeswara swamy temple untill 2005. Now, a new temple was constructed in the same place and the godess was shifted in to it. New temple of Jogulamba is very much beautiful to see with nice granite flooring. It is surrounded by a water pool. As per the local people Alampur Jogulamba is in Ugra Rupa (highly energetic and onerous to worship) and therefore the water pool nearby, makes the atmosphere cool. Idol of Alampur Jogulamba in sitting position has vast quantity of hair with lizard, scorpion, bat and a scull in it.

Idols of Saptamatrikas, Vighneswara and Veenapani Veerabhadra idols are also present in this temple. Original Chandi Mundi idols were left in Alampur Bala brahmeswara swamy temple and new idols are created and placed in Alampur Jogulamba temple.

On entering in to the temple first we see Nandeeswara statue in the hall. After crossing hall, we can enter into a prakara where Veerabhadraswamy, Navadurgas, Navagrahas, Trimoorthy gods (Dakshinamoorthy, Yoganarasimha swamy, Brahma), Kumaraswamy, Kalabhairava,Vighneswara are present.

After crossing this room, we can enter in to third room which has Pradakshina marg. In this room Parvathi mata, Yoga Narasimha swamy, Ugra Narasimha swamy, Siddhas are present.

In the center of this third room, we can see Garbhagriha in which Lord Bala Brahmeswara swamy is present. The Shiva linga has an irregular shape and Panapatta is slightly slanted towards left. The temple has extraordinary sculptures. The temple was built by Rasasidha who came from Kasi on the order of Lord Shiva. Many Shiva Lingas are also present in the campus of Balabrahmeswara swamy temple.

There is a popular legend which says that there was a great saint in 6th century by name Rasa Siddha who used to convert base metal into gold. It was this saint in association with chalukya king Pulakesi II who was instrumental in construction of chain of temples called ‘Nava Brahmas’. It is said that there
is a secret tunnel from the garbhalaya of Bala Brahma leading to Srisailam. According to the legend, these 9 names of Siva are the names of medicinal herbs put forth by Rasa Siddhas.

Popularly known as Nava Brahma temples :
Swarga Brahma, Taraka Brahma , Padma Brahma, Bala Brahma, Garuda Brahma, Kumara Brahma, Arka Brahma, Vira Brahma and Vishwa Brahma.

This temple was dedicated to Lord Shiva and visited by tourists especially during the celebration of Maha Shivratri.

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Omkareshwar

Omkareshwar is on an island called Mandhata or Shivapuri in the Narmada river; the shape of the island is said to be like the Hindu ? symbol. There are two temples here, one to Omkareshwar (whose name means "Lord of Omkaara or the Lord of the Om Sound") and one to Amareshwar (whose name means "Immortal lord" or "lord of the Immortals or Devas").

Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga also has its own history and stories.Three of them are prominent. The first story is about Vindhya Parvat (Mount). Once upon a time Narada (son of Lord Brahma), known for his non-stop cosmic travel, visited Vindhya parvat. In his spicy way Narad told Vindhya Parvat about the greatness of Mount Meru. This made Vindhya jealous of Meru and he decided to be bigger than Meru. Vindhya started worship of Lord Shiva to become greater than Meru. Vindhya Parvat practiced severe penance and worshipped parthivlinga (A linga made from physical material) along with Lord Omkareshwar for nearly six months. As a result Lord Shiva was pleased and blessed him with his desired boon. On a request of all the gods and the sages Lord Shiva made two parts of the lingas. One half is called Omkareshwara and the other Mamaleshwar or Amareshwar. Lord Shiva gave the boon of growing, but took a promise that Vindhya will never be a problem to Shiva's devotees. Vindhya began to grow, but did not keep his promise. It even obstructed the sun and the moon. All deities approached sage Agastya for help. Agastya along with his wife came to Vindhya, and convinced him that he would not grow until the sage and his wife returned. They never returned and Vindhya is there as it was when they left. The sage and his wife stayed in Srisailam which is regarded as Dakshina Kashi and one of the Dwadash Jyotirlinga.

The second story relates to Mandhata and his son's penance. King Mandhata of Ikshvaku clan (an ancestor of Lord Ram) worshipped Lord Shiva here till the Lord manifested himself as a Jyotirlinga. Some scholars also narrate the story about Mandhata's sons-Ambarish and Muchukunda, who had practiced severe penance and austerities here and pleased Lord Shiva. Because of this the mountain is named Mandhata.

The third story from Hindu scriptures says that once upon a time there was a great war between Devas and Danavas(demon), in which Danavas won. This was a major setback for Devas and hence Devas prayed to Lord Shiva. Pleased with their prayer, Lord Shiva emerged in the form of Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga and defeated Danavas.

There is a good number of public transport available from and to Omkareshwar. The temple is well maintained by the authorities. Also, the location is full of peace and serenity and one can enjoy the beautiful aura of Omkareshwar at the ghats of Narmada river. The river is clean and full of fresh water.

Near to Omkareshwar temple (around 100 m away), one can have darshan of Mamleshwar, which is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas of Shiva. There is a bridge over Narmada river connecting Omkareshwar temple and Mamleshwar temple. One can also take boats and jetty to cross the river and reach Mamleshwar temple. The temple is thousands of years old and having linga of shiva in the main temple known as Mamleshwar. One can observe the peaceful and soothing environment at this 4th Jyotirlinga among the 12 Jyotirlinga of Shiva.

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Brahmamgarimattam

Brahmamgarimattam is a famous piligrimage center and a mandal in Kadapa district in the state of Andhra Pradesh in India. It is the place of Sree Veera-Brahmendra Swamy Jeevasamdhi and Sree Eshwaramma Devi Jeeva samadhi's are located. He was tha author of "KALAGNANA", a collection of predictions about future. Srimadvirat Ptuluri Veera Brahmendra Swamy Matham is located in Kandimallayapalli in Kadapa district. He was born in tn the year 1610 A.D. After His JeevaSamadhi in 1693 on Vaisakha Suddha Dashami, His trustees and devotees built this temple.Now this Matham was run by His family members. Veera Brahmendra Swamy wrote KALAGNANAM, a book of prophesies which predicted the arrival of Kalki in the form of Sri Veera Bhoga Vasantha Rayulu. Banaganepalli is the place near Ravvalakonda where he wrote Kalagnanam.
He born in 1608(A.D) to the above said parents “Paripurnacharyulu and Prakrutambha” in a forest on the way to home village from Varanasi. After he born to his parents were died left him in the forest, then as per instructions of “Sri Maha Vishnu” (Child), sage of that area came and took the child and then going to his Ashram. Then the above step parents “Veera Bhojacharyulu and Veera Papamambha” came to the Ashram they were not having children from a long time. As per sage instructions they took that child as their kid. Sage given a nice name to the New born child as “Veerappaiah” and he send off to them along with that kid.
From that day, our story god as a kid growing with new parents happily. But by the age of 10 years, his step father died, leaving his step mother and him. From childhood he is very active and learning once he see or hear (Eka Santagrahi in Telugu) any Veda or Upanishad. After his step father died, he wants to go to find the way of knowledge, which is useful for normal people.

His step mother not allowed him to go to out of house, and then he shows the truth of Human Birth and how organs developed during pregnancy to her as a truth of life. Then she got realized and sends off him on his way. He promised that he will appear to her whenever she wants to see him again. Mantropadesham given to his mother and continued his spiritual journey from Pappagni Mutt, Chikballapur and arrived at Banganapalle, stayed in Garimireddy Achhamma house. Garimireddy Venkatareddy and Achhamma Couple are natives of Bhanumukkala Village, Banganapalle. Swamy, identified himself as Veerappaiah to Garimireddy Couple. There his work is to look out the Cows of that family to take to open fields for grass.
Daily he is going to a long distanced place and deep forest to feed cows and there one round with his stick is drawn and cows lies in that circle only not even one outside with discipline , any carnivorous animal cannot enter into that drawn circle, but remaining cowboys told this to Achhamma garu. One day she observed the same along with he is hiding the leafy scripts of Legendry “KalaGnanam” and both couple noticed that he is not a ordinary man none other than God. After this is known to whole village, he wants to leave that place, but Achhamma garu asked one boon to him, that their son is blind from childhood, she asked to help her son. Then Veerappaiah told that this is a sin from his before life that, as a man in his earlier life, he taken off his wife eyes without any reason except ego.
He once said “Harihi Aum” and touched the eyes of blind child, then that child got eyes as normal. Then everybody knew that he is the form of God as a Human. Next he buried one pot under a tree there in the Achhamma gari house, which consists of “KalaGnanam” scripts. Later he left to Kandimallayapalli.

Sri Veerabrahmendra Swami left Banaganapalle and reached Kandimallayapalle in Kadapa (Cuddapah) District. He worked as a sculptor, carpenter and blocksmith for his livelihood and married a pious woman Govindamma, the daughter of Kotayyacharyulu of Peddakomarla.

During his stay at Kandimallyapalle, he selected Siddyya, a muslim, and Kakkayya, a harijan, as his main disciples an imparted spiritual knowledge to one all, irrespective of
caste, creed, sex, religion and region. Besides, he also taught the scriptures to the Muslin rulers of that period (Nawabs) and persuaded them to respect all the other religions.
He lived in Kandimallayapalli till his Jeeva Samadhi (Living Gods will take this way to buried in a room under earth at last. There in Kandimallayapalli he got one Viswa Brahmin Family who he is the same caste. He married to their daughter named “Eeshwari”, later called as “Eeshwaramma” and having 4 sons and 1 daughter. He showed many events and incidents which proven him as a God. And he helped the people with his Legendry Script Called as “KalaGnanam”.

Sree Heramba Ganapathi Temple on South East corner, Manu brahma (Shiva) temple with Adisakthi (Parvathi) is at the East, Maya brahma (Vishnumurthi) with Parasakthi (Lakshmi) is at South, Twasthabrahma (Chaturmukha Brahma) with Itcha Sakthi (Saraswathi) is at West,
Shilpi brahma (Indra) with Kriyasakthi (Sachidevi) is at North, ViswagnaBrahma (Surya) with Gnanasakthi (Sanja Devi) is at Northeast, Vishwakarma (vedaPitha) with Gayathri Deva (Vedamatha) is at the centre, Venugopala swamy temple at the Southwest, Sri Sanari vishewswara swamy at the northwest and 125 Gothra rishi idols are installed in the temple premises.

Aradhana utsavas are celebrated every year. Six days starting from Vaishaka Shuddha Dashami utsavas are performed.

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Pashupatinath temple

Pashupatinath temple is located on the Western bank of Bagmati river. The exact date of Pashupatinath’s construction is unknown. Despite this fact, the Pashupatinath is considered the oldest Hindu temple of Kathmandu.

The earliest evidence of the temple’s existence dates back to 400 A.D. The current main temple of Pashupatinath complex was built in the end of the 17th century to replace the previous one, destroyed by termites.

Countless smaller temples were constructed around the main temple on both banks of Bagmati River during the last few centuries.

There are numerous legends, connected with the construction of the temple. The most famous one claims, that the temple was built on the site where Shiva lost one of his antlers, while he was in the guise of a deer. He and his wife arrived to the bank of Bagmati and amazed by the beauty of the site decided to change themselves into deers and walk in the surrounding forests.

After a while gods and humans decided to return them to their duties, but Shiva rejected to return and they had to use force. In the fight Shiva lost one of his antlers, which later became the first lingam worshipped by Hinduists in Pashupatinath. Later this relic was lost, and according to another legend, found again by a herdsman, whose cow showed the location of lingam by irrigating the place it was buried with her milk.

Only followers of Hinduism can enter the main temple, but all the other buildings are available for foreigners to visit. From the Eastern bank of the river the main temple can be seen in its whole beauty. The western bank of Bagmati also hosts the so called Panch Deval (Five temples) complex, which once was a holy shrine but now serves a shelter for destitute old people.

Every year this temple attracts hundreds of elderly followers of Hinduism. They arrive here to find shelter for the last several weeks of their lives, to meet death, be cremated on the banks of the river and travel their last journey with the waters of the sacred river Bagmati, which later meets the holy river Ganges. Hinduists from every corner of Nepal and India are arriving here to die.

It is believed that those who die in Pashupatinath Temple are reborn as a human, regardless of any misconduct that could worsen their karma. The exact day of their death is predicted by astrologers of the temple. If you are attracted to the places where the spirit of death can be felt, then consider Pashupatinath as your first destination. It is a temple with special atmosphere of death; death is present in almost every ritual and every corner of it.

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Khajrana Ganesh

Khajrana Ganesh temple built by Rani Ahilya Bai Holkar is a crowd puller in the locality. It is believed that in order to safe guard the idol from Aurangzeb, the idol was hidden in a well and in 1735, it was taken out from the well and a temple was established in 1735 by Ahilyabai Holkar belonging to the Holkar dynasty. The temple is taken over by the government and managed by the Bhatt family.

Mostly wednesday and sunday huge people will come to this temple for offering prayers. As per a local belief, all the wishes of the devotees are fulfilled, once they worship in this temple. The main festival of this temple is vinayak chathurthi and was held in grand manner in the month of August and September. The temple has developed a lot over the years. It has developed from a small hut to a huge temple and the most revered shrine in the city. There are regular donation of gold, diamonds and other precious jewels at the temple.The gate and the outer wall of the Garbhagriha is made of silver and different moods and festivals are depicted on it. The eyes of the deity are made of diamonds which were donated by a business man of Indore. The upper wall of the Garbhagriha is made of silver.

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Mehendipur Balaji

Mehendipur Balaji is a temple where live exorcism can be witnessed by those who dare. Thousands of devotees flock this temple every day not just to be penitent, but to get their loved ones relived of evil spirits and ghosts. Some even say that this holy place is bestowed with such power that it could turn atheistic to a theist.

This shrine has three deities who are worshipped: Balaji (Lord Hanuman), Pret Raj (The King of spirits), Bhairav. The idol inside which is over more than 1000 years old was never created by an artist, it is believed to have self appeared. But, the temple around it was built in the 20th century. Legend says that this temple was bestowed with divine powers to cure people possessed with evil spirits and contained by black magic.

As the legend goes, the images of Lord Balaji and that of Pret Raja (the king of spirits) appeared from 'Mehandipur Dham' around one thousand years ago in a valley, amidst the hills of the Aravali Range. A priest had a dream in which Sri Balaji Maharaj indicated three divine deities and a magnificent temple.

Unlike, other religious shrines in India, here, you will get black-coloured balls as Prasad; no flowers. These balls are strictly prohibited from being consumed; they are supposed to be thrown in the fire inside temple. The temple is divided into four large halls, and as you enter, The first two hall are of Lord Bhairav, and Hanuman, where we are supposed to throw the black balls into the ceremonial fire, only after taking it over your entire body five times. After this, you seek blessings of Lord Hanuman who relives you off any graha dashas or sankat. Next, you are taken into the third chamber . You see many crying incessantly, pounding their heads over walls and pillars, and some even pouring hot boiling water over their bodies, feeling no pain at all. By now, those who have no courage left leave from a small exit just before the fourth hall. You won’t find many along with you in the last hall, which is why it was even scarier. There were children, men and women tied to rocks and pillars with metal chains. Some of them were being beaten by priests. It looked as if many of them have not eaten for days. When I tried to inquire, it seemed I committed the cardinal sin, those glares is something I’ll never forget. This practice goes on daily to free these people of malignant spirits, ghosts, etc. It is all pain and negativity that surrounds you in this last hall. Once out, you are advised to immediately leave the area or the village without consuming anything not even water. It is believed once you step out, there is always an evil spirit waiting to cling, and those who look back fall prey.

If you have wished for something to Lord Hanuman, then make it a point to visit him back once the work is done or the wish has come true. It has been often shared by those who visited the shrine that they get some sort of hurdles on their way, as if a sign of warning. Once you reach the village, you will for a brief time sense cold chills, despite the place being at the center of warmest area. With the normal life taking its course in the most usual ways, you will find a total change of worlds once you step inside the temple. people suffering from malignant spirits and black magic or spell get their relief when they make an appeal for relief to Shri Bhairav ji and Shri Pret Raj Sarkar who holds his court and awards punishment to the malignant spirits, ghosts, goblins, ghouls, evil eyed witches etc.

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Kinner Kailash

The Kinnaur Kailash (locally known as Kinner Kailash) is a mountain having height of 6050 meters and is considered as sacred by both Hindu and Buddhist Kinnauris. This mountain is sometimes confused with the Mount Kailash in Tibet.

The Kinner Kailash Parikrama or circumblation around the Mt. Kinner Kailash region is considered to be religiously significant for many Hindus. Owing to the same reason, many pilgrims and devotees venture on this trek every year.

The Kinner Kailash Shivlingam is a 79 foot vertical rock in the Kinner Kailash mountain range. On a clear day, one can see the Shivlingam which changes color during the course of the day. This rock face is in between the 20,000 ft Kinner Kailash ranges of Mt. Kailash (19,850 ft) & Mt. Jorkanden (21,237 ft). There is a logical route which is taken by pilgrims and locals of the region to reach this holy rock. This trek can be done in a span of 2 to 3 days.

As per legend, this shrine existed since the time of Bhasmasur, the deadly Asur (demon) who received a boon from the deity Lord Shiva after great penance, which entailed that any person's head touched by him will be turned into ashes (bhasma). Upon receiving this gift, he tried to turn Lord Shiva into ashes as he wished to possess Parvati, which would only be possible upon his death. Lord Shiva stayed in hiding, changing locations often, and then finally came to Kinnaur Kailash. He resided here for some time meditating. Lord Vishnu eventually helped him to slay the Asur, appearing to him as a woman and getting him to place his hand upon his own head, thereby killing Bhasmasur.

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Kolhapur Mahalaxmi Temple

Goddess Shri Mahalaxmi - The Mahalaxmi temple, an ancient temple in kolhapur, is dedicated to the Goddess of prosperity and peace. Shri Mahalaxmi locally known as Goddess Ambabai .
The Shri Mahalakshmi Temple of Kolhapur in Maharashtra, India, is one of the Shakti Peethas listed in various puranas of Hinduism. According to these writings, a Shakti Peetha is a place associated with Shakti, the goddess of power. The Kolhapur Shakti Peetha is of special religious significance being one of the six places where it is believed that one can either obtain salvation from desires or have them fulfilled. The temple takes its name from Mahalakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, and it is believed that the divine couple reside in the area.

The temple was constructed during the region of king karandev of chalukya dynasty in 7th Century AD. Construction and development of this temple continued during kingdoms Chalukya for next two centuries. Temple has faced major earth quake during the period of 8 - 9th century, then afterwards reconstruction work has been done by kingdom of Rashtrakut. In 12th century kolhapur is a capital city of king Shilahar . The maximum construction of this temple is been built by king Shilahar during 12th century.

The idol of mahalaxmi is very unique weighing 40 kg , made as a monolithic structure embedded with precious stones and diamonds.

The image of Mahalakshmi carved in black stone is 3 feet in height. The Shri Yantra is carved on one of the walls in the temple. A stone lion, the vahana of the goddess, stands behind the statue. The crown contains an image of the Sheshnag — the serpent of Vishnu. In Her four hands, the deity of Mahalakshmi holds objects of symbolic value. The lower right hand holds a mhalunga (a citrus fruit), in the upper right, a large mace (kaumodaki) with its head touching the ground, in the upper left a shield (khetaka), and in the lower left, a bowl (panpatra). Unlike most Hindu sacred images, which face north or east, the image of this deity looks west (Pashchim). There is a small open window on the western wall, through which the light of the setting sun falls on the face of the image for three days around the 21st of each March and September. There are a number of other shrines in the courtyard to the Navagrahas, Surya, Mahishasuramardini, Vitthal-Rakhmai, Shiva, Vishnu, Tulja Bhavani and others. Some of these images date back to the 11th century, while some are of recent origin. Also located in the courtyard is the temple tank Manikarnika Kund, on whose bank is a shrine to Visweshwar Mahadev.

Navaratri is the most famous festival here. Another major attraction of devotees is in days of Kiranotsav (The rays of setting Sun light crosses the main area of temple, hall and entered in to the area of idol Goddess Shri Mahalaxmi ) It is celebrated for three days from January 31 every year.
Jyotiba, Panhala, Narsinhwadi (Narsobachi Wadi), Bahubali of Kumbhojgiri, Vishalgad, Amboli, Gokak Falls, Radhanagari Dam, Mahabaleshwar are main places near this temple to visit.

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Sri Maha Mariamman (Wat Khaek)

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, also known as Maha Uma Devi Temple and Wat Khaek is a South Indian architecture style Hindu temple in Bangkok, Thailand. It was built in 1879 by Vaithi Padayatchi, a Hindu, a Tamil immigrant.

Wat Sri Maha Uma Devi was founded during the reign of King Rama IV by members of the Southern Indian community who immigrated originally to the South of Thailand and then moved to the SilomCanal. The temple was built as a place to worship Uma in accordance with Shaktism, one of the denominations of Hinduism, which has many followers. It is believed that the Devis, who are the consorts of Hindu gods, are the source of power for their husbands. The popular Devis are, for example, Uma, the consort of Shiva; Lakshmi, the consort of Vishnu, and Saraswati, the consort of Brahma.

In ancient texts that describe the Dashavatara (10 principal Avatars) of Vishnu, Uma was born after Vishnu and stroked his breast. In a Hindu text, she is the daughter of Himavan and the mother of Ganesha and Skanda. Uma is also Sniva’s shakti (power). Originally, the temple was a simple building with less decoration than it has today. There were only sculptures of the many Hindu deities. For example, the sculpture of Shiva was located in the corridor outside the temple. Inside the temple, housed the sculptures of Uma and her sons: Ganesha and Skanda.

Entrance is through the gopuram, in classical South-Indian style. The gopuram is the threshold between the material and the spiritual world inside the temple. The temple's facade is in strikingly florid style of a riot of different colours with carved images of various gods and goddesses in different shapes and sizes. The main shrine of the temple complex is a dome with covering of a gilded copper plate. Within the premises of the temple complex there are three shrines dedicated to Ganesh, Kartik and the main shrine of Sri Maha Mariamman. The practice of worship followed by the devotees is sequentially Ganesh, Kartik and then the main deity. In addition there are also shrines dedicated to the worship of gods Shiva, Brahma and Vishnu. The main hall of the shrine is also decorated with images of Mahalakshmi, Saraswati, Kali, and Hanuman.

As the name of the temple suggests, it is dedicated to Sri Maha Mariamman, the goddess of disease, rain and protection. She is the main South Indian mother goddess, predominant among other places in the rural areas of Tamil Nadu.

The Hindu religion is a mystery to us personally. We found that Sri Maha Mariamman is sometimes associated with the Hindu Goddess Parvati (but not the same). In any case, a notice at the entrance of the temple indicates (as many other sources) that sculptures of the Goddess Uma (Uma-Devi is the Thai name for Parvati) are installed in the temple and that she is the principal goddess. The facade of the gopuram is adorned with images of many Hindu Deities. Shrines inside are dedicated to Uma-Devi, and also to Ganesha, Vishnu and Krishna. In the temple compound, there is also a small shrine with a lingam inside. Reportedly the temple is being maintained by artisans from Southern India.

It is forbidden to take pictures inside the temple. Uma has both benevolent forms (Uma, Parvati) and wrathful aspects (Durga, Kali). In her wrathful avatars, Uma vanquishes Asuras (demons) and creates peace on Earth. In her benevolent form as Uma, she is the Goddess of Compassion and Elegance. She is popular among believers who seek her blessings, especially on love and fertility. Her offerings comprise flower garlands, young coconuts, and .bananas, which are available at the temple. If worshipers wish to bring their own offerings, make sure that there is no meat. Shoes are not allowed in the temple area. From her story, it shows that people have different sides: good and bad. If a person can control their bad side at all times and present only the good, he/she shall be loved by others.

It is said that 85% of the Thais visit the temple as believe that Hinduism is not a separate religion but a branch of Buddhism. Religious festivals, such as Navratri, take place here following the traditional Tamil calendar in September/October. This festival, which is believed to give redress from bad luck, is held for ten days and on the final day the street in front of the temple is colourfully decorated with yellow flower garlands and candles, and the image of Sri Maha Mariamman is taken through the streets in a procession; during this time a portion of the Silom is blocked to traffic. Deepavali is also a special festival in the temple when it is brightly lit up. An oil lamp ritual is held on most mid days' and on Fridays, and prasad, food blessed by god, is distributed to devotees. Apart from these two major festivals, daily worships are attended by a large number of Thai Buddhists and Chinese who believe that Hindu gods help them in business and bless their women to conceive.

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Vedadri Temple

Among the five Panchanarasimhar Kshetrams( Vedadri, Vadapalli, Mattapalli, Mangalagiri and Ketavaram) of Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy that are flourished on the holy banks of river Krishna Vedadri is an important one. It is situated just at a distance of 10 kms from ‘chillakallu’ on the Nation High way No.9 from Vijayawada to Hyderabad.

In Vedadri, Sri Lakshminarasimha Swamy exists in five different forms known as Pancha Narasimha Moorthies. They are Sri Jwala Narasimha Swamy, who is seen as Swayambu Moorthy on the mountain top; Salagrama Narasimha, who is seen on River Krishnaveni; Yogananda Sri Narasimha Swamy, and Lakshmi Narasimha Swami both are seen inside the temple premises; and Veera Narasimha Swami is seen on Garudadri, which is 5km east of Vedadri.

Thus the Lord existing in five forms different from each other called Pancha Narasimha Murthys namely ( Jwala, Saligrama , Veera Yogananda and Laxmi Narasimha). This holy shine is called “VEDADRI”

“Bramhand purana” says that Somaksura a demon of Yore stole the four Vedas from Lord Bramha and hid himself in the Ocean. Lord Bramha then approached his father Lord Srimannarayana murthy and Prayed for the restoration of Vedas. Lord Srimannarayana Murthy in ‘Matsyavathara’ (Fish) entered the Ocean, killed the demon Somakasura and brought back the Vedas in tact. The Vedas, in human from thanked the lord for his kind gesture in saving them, Prayed to stay with them on their heads. There upon the Lord munificently granted their Prayer but said that the would do that only after killing another demon Hiranya Kasapa and saving his son prahalda. The Lord also assured the Vedapurushas that he would stay with them as panchamurthy only. So saying the Lord bid them till such time to remain in the river Krishnaveni as Saligrama mountain. Lord told them that Krishnaveni also prayed to allow her to worship him everyday and that the granted her the boon. He assured the Vedapurshas that both the prayers would be granted simultaneously. According to the bid of the Lord the Veda purashas remaind in Krishnaveni as Saligrama mountain. Later the Lord incarnated himself as ‘Narasimha’ killed the mighty demon Hiranya Kasapa and served Prahalda and ever since stayed as Jwala Narasimha on the mountain head at Vedadri in fulfillment of the inclination of Veda Purushas. Then Lord Bramha requested Jwala Narasimha to stay in Sathya Loka as Saligrama Narasimha so the Lord went to Sathya Loka as Saligrama Narasimha at the request of Lord Bramha. But even before Brahma offered his worship to the Lord in Sathya Loka, the Sathya Loka, the Satya Loka was consumed in flames. There upon Lord Brahma personally brought Saligrama Narasimha Murthy to the river Krishnaveni and erected the Saligrama Murthy on the Saligrama Mountain. Thus Lord Laxmi Narasimha Swamy the incarnation of Lord Srimannarayana fulfilled the desire of both Veda purushas and the river Krishnaveni, simultaneously.Later on, the Lord, at the request of Rishis like Rishya Srugna and kinga like Mann, stayed in the middle of the mountain as Yogananda Narasimha Swamy and at the request of the Garudas the Lord stayed as Veera Narasimha and as per the prayer of Vana Devatha the Lord is pervading the mountain as Laxmi Narasimha Murthy. Thus this holy place is sanctified by the presence of all devatas who descended from the heavens to worship the Lord who enriched the mountain with several holy spirit. The facts were revealed by Suta Mahamuni to Sownaka and others who acclaimed the place where pancha Narasimha Murthy are existing.

Several lakhs of devotees visit this holy shrine to seek the Lords blessings. Vyasa said, that at the beginning of Kaliyuga all the rishis approached him and implored about the evil effects of Kali and prayed for a way out it. He was just about to sit for penance after finishing holy dip in Ganges, grasped the purpose for which the rishis have come to Vyasa told them that the people of Kali are singularly fortunate because they need not perform any rituals like yagnas deep penance as in other Yugas. He said that simple, chanting of the holy name of the Lord is sufficient., i.e., mere ‘Smarana’ which bestows salvation.Kalav Smarana mukthi. It means in kaliyuga mere smarana is enough for mukthi. The rishis having got the information from veda vyasa beg an searching for a suitable place for their penance and at last they found Vedadri as the most suitable place, as the Lord is staying there in five forms (Pannchamurhty). Further the rishis while searching , for a suitable place heard Veda recitals in perfect swaras being emanated from the holy mountain they named them as ‘Vedadri’ the mountain of Vedas. The rishis were enchanted by the chanting of Vedas by the mountain, especially the sama veda (music) the Gandharva Swara and its varied moorchans. They have been in mensely satisfied by the holy recitals and have settled there for penance. They took a holy dip in river Krishnaveni, had a pradakshan of the mountain and them settled in Penance. During their deep penance in their Samdhi., they heard a divine voice saying “Holy rishis this is Vedadri or Vedagiri where Lord Srimannarayana has taken the avatara of Nrusimha Swamy”. After the holy words the rishis discovered a Luminous light discerning the path upwards the mountain by which the rishis have scaled it and found Yogananda Nrusimha Swamy in a temple on the top of the mountain. The rishis who were over whelmed with joy praised the Lord chanting his holy name.

Slokam:

Namasthe Narasimhaya Samasaranava Setave
Namh Kalyana roopaya Veda seershyathe Namha.

Then the Lord gave them darshan as Jwala Nrusimha in the shape of fire, as Saligrama murthy in the river , as Yogananda Nrusimha (Laxmi Nrusimha Murthy), as Veera Nrusimha Murthy in Garudachala. The sishis after visiting all the shrines came back to vedadri and sat for penance. This mountain has been enriched in its spiritual splendor not only by the Pancha Murthy but also due to the penance of several rishis, The adage is “Theerthi Kurvanthni Theerthami”. This holy shrine has been embellished with glory historically also. The boundary walls have been built by Reddi kings about eight or nine hundred years ago. They have maintained the holy shrine with all its prestige purity and spiritual splendor. One of the poet trinities Yerrapragada and the great Kavi Sarvabhouma Sreenadha have visited this shrine. Vaggaeya Kara Narayana Teerthulu worshipped, this Lord four days and wrote the Tarangas in praise of Laxmi Nrusimha, Yerrapragada of the renowned Kavithraya (Trinity) wrote the stotra Dandakam enlogising the deity. Kavi Sarvabhowma Sreenadha in his epic ‘Kasi Kandam’ referred to this great deity.This holy shrine of divine splendor has carved a niche in the hearts of all the devotees who worshipped this deity and quenched their mortal desires.

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Vadapalli Lakshmi Narasimhar temple

Vadapalli Lakshmi Narasimhar temple is situated in Nalgonda district near the town of Miryalaguda, at the confluence of the River Krishna and Musi River. These two rivers very unusually come together in the shape of an "L". This is one of the Panchanarasimhar kshetram (Vedadri, Vadapalli, Mattapalli, Mangalagiri, Ketavaram).

History of Temple:

According to the Puranas, Vyasa Bhagavan knowing the piousness of the place meditated for a long time for the manifestation of Sri Narasimha Swamy. Commiserating at the continued penance of Vysa Bhagavan Lord Maha Vishnu again transfigured as Narasimha Swamy and appeared to the former, with ferocious looks of a lion. Vyasa Bhagavan experienced that Lord Narasimha, who was taking breath with uncontrolled anger, had come to him just after killing Hiranyakasipu. He, therefore, entreated Sri Narasimha Swamy to manifest at Vadapalli in that form only.

Accordingly, Sri Narasimha Swamy manifested there to bless the devotees and to alleviate their difficulties. It is believed that even now that idol breathes in and let it out. The temple authorities have arranged two lamps. One of the lights of the lamp used for showing the face of the Lord will be quivering to testify the fact that the Lord is taking breath and letting it out. The light of the other lamp, which is kept below remain resolutely.
Regular poojas and abhishekhams, special poojas are performed on festivals. Huge crowd visit this temple during Krishna Pushkaralu.

Mattapalli Narasimha Swamy Temple is another famous temple which is 37 km from here.

Vadapalli village provides sufficient accommodation options for guests. A Guest house is provided within the temple premises which provide tourists with basic yet comfortable accommodation.
Moderate accommodation facilities are available in Miryalaguda City and also better facilities are available in Nalgonda City for the visiting devotees.

This temple is located near Miryaladua-Vadapalle Highway. TSRTC runs buses from Miryalaguda city(25.7 km) which is connected to all the major cities. Vadapalli temple is just 1.4 km from the Highway Road.

By train, Vishnupuram Station(4.7 km), Miryalaguda Railway Station(29.0km) and Nadikudi Junction(16.7 km) are the nearest railway stations to reach this temple. Buses and private transport is available from these stations.

Hyderabad International Airport(183 km) and Vijayawada Airport(163 km) are the nearest Airports to reach the temple. 

Sri Kaleshwara Muktheeshwara Swamy Devasthanam

Sri Kaleshwara Muktheeshwara Swamy Devasthanam, Kaleshwaram Village Mahadevpur Mandal Jayashankar District is an eminent Historical and ancient temple with its divine powers, this temple is situated at the Bank of River Godavari and between the border of Maharastra and Andhra Pradesh. Here in this Temple, daily 1000s of Devotees visit the temple and offer prayer to the deity Sri Kaleshwara Muktheeshwara Swamy Varu. And get blessed. Here devotee's belief that once we come to this temple and offer prayer devotees will get blessed fulfills their all wants.

The Mukteshwara Swamy Temple is uniquely significant because of the two Shiva Lingas found on a single pedestal. They are named Lord Shiva and Lord Yama; collectively known as Kaleshwara Mukteswara Swamy.

Kaleshwaram is one of the places of the three Shiva temples mentioned in Trilinga Desham (Land of Three Lingams), another name for Telugu speaking region, the Andhra Pradesh, the other two being Draksharamam and Srishailam. This place is also called Dakshina Triveni Sangamam, as two rivers meet here along with a third, the illusionary flow of Antarvaahini. It is said that a long time back one of the Vaishyas had performed an abhisheka to Kaleshwara Mukteswara with hundreds of milk pots and the milk evolved at the sangamam of Godavari and Pranahita. Hence the name Dakshina Gangotri (the other being Allahabad, or Prayaga)

As per the Ancient (Puranam) and Village Elders this temple was established by the Lord Yama (Lord of Narka) and named Muktheeshwara and at the same place lord Shiva appeared in the form of lignum and named as Kaleshwara at the same stone. Two lingas appears closely at the same place names by Kaleshwara Mukteshwara Swamy Varu. Here in this temple another importance is Triveni Sangamam Three River sangamam River Godavari, River Sarasvathi, Rivar Pranahita comes to gether called Prana Hita River. When we offer Abhishekam to the deities the water flaws in the form of River Sarasvathi and Pranahita and mixed in River Godavari, no other temple in the world has this type of temple.

The Meaning of Kaleshwara is Yama (Lord of Narka) and Mukteshwara is Lord Shiva. This two lings appears in one place this temple also called pranabattam (One Pitham). Daily thousand of devotees visit to the temple during the Festival and Jathara period lakhs of devotes visit to the temple among them 1000 of devotees and VIP are from other states like Maharastra, Karnataka and other states. Offer pooja to the divinity and get hallowed.

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Bhramarambha Mallikharjuna Swami, Srisailam

The shrine of Lord Mallikarjuna is on the flat top of Nallamala Hills. The history of Srisailam began with the Satavahanas who were the first empire builders in South India. The earliest known historical mention of the hill, Srisailam, can be traced to the King Vasishthiputra Pulumavi's Nasik inscription of 1st Century A.D. Srisailam or Srisailamu. It is on the banks of the Krishna River about 212 km south of Hyderabad and 179 km from Kurnool.

This celebrated mountain is also named as Siridhan, Srigiri, Sirigiri, Sriparvatha and Srinagam. It has been a popular centre of Saivite pilgrimage for centuries.

The prominence of this Divya Kshetram is highlighted by the fact that while performing our daily household rituals we specify place of location of our existence with reference to Srisailam.

The presiding Deities of this kshetram Lord Mallikarjuna Swamy is one of the twelve Jyothirlingas and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi is one of the eighteen Mahasakthis and both are self-manifested. The unique feature of this kshetram is the combination of Jyothirlingam and Mahasakthi in one campus, which is very rare and only one of its kind.

There is a common belief in vogue that this Holy Kshetram exists from times immemorial. The antiquity and origin of God Mallikarjuna Swamy and Goddess Bhramaramba Devi is not known.

The epigraphical evidence reveals that the history of Srisailam begins with the Sathavahanas who were the first empire builders in South India. The earliest known historical mention of the Hill - Srisailam, can be traced in Pulumavis Nasik inscription of 1st Century A.D.

The Sathavahanas, the Ikshavakus, the Pallavas, the Vishnukundis, the Chalukyas, the Kakatiyas, the Reedy Kings, the Vijayanagara Emperors and Chatrapathi Shivaji are among the famous emperors who worshipped God Mallikarjuna Swamy.

Prataparudra of Kakatiya Dynasty strived a lot for the improvements of this Kshetram and granted Paraganas for its maintenance. Ganapathideva has spent 12000 Golden Nanyas for the maintenance of the temple.

The period of Reddi Kings is the Golden Age of Srisailam that almost all rulers of the dynasty did celebrated service for this temple. In 14th Century Prolaya Vema Reddi of Reddy Dynasty constructed stepped path-way to Srisailam and Pathalaganga (Here the river Krishna is called as Pathalaganga) and Anavema Reddi constructed Veera Siromandapam in which the Veerasaiva devotees cut off their hands, tongue, limbs with devotion to attain the realisation of the God. This practice is known as Veeracharam.

The Second Harihararaya of Vijayanagara Empire constructed the Mukhamantapam of Swamy shrine and also a Gopuram on Southern Side of the temple.

In the 15th Century Sri Krishnadevaraya Constructed the Rajagopuram on Eastern side and Salumantapas on both sides of the temple.

The last Hindu King who strove hard for the improvement of the temple is Chatrapathi Shivaji who constructed a Gopuram on northern side in the year 1667 A.D.


Tradition, literature as well as epigraphical sources state that the sacred hill of Srisailam has four gateways in the four cardinal directions namely,

Tripuranthakam is in Prakasam District in the east where God Tripurantakeshwara Swamy and Goddess Tripurasundari Devi are presiding deities.
Siddhavatam is located on the bank of the river Penna in Kadapa District in the south where Jyothisideswara Swamy and Goddess Kamakshi Devi are the presiding deities.
Alampur is on the bank of the river Tungabhadra in Mahaboobnagar District in the west where Navabrahma Alayas, a group of nine temples of the Chalukya period, are. This Kshetram is also the seat of Goddess Jogulamba, one of the eighteen Mahasakthis.
Umamaheswaram is located in Rangapur, Achampeta Mandal, Mahaboobnagar District in the North where God Umamaheswara Swamy and Goddess Umamaheswari Devi are the presiding deities.

Besides the main gateways, there are four Secondary Gateways in the four corners:

Eleswaram: Located in Mahaboobnagar District now submerged in the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam in the northeast with Eleswara Swamy and Katyani as presiding deities.
Somasila: Located on the bank of the river Penna in the southeast with Skanda Someshwara as the presiding deity.
Pushpagiri: Located in Kadapa District in the southwest with Santana Malleshwara as presiding deity.
Sangameswaram: Located at the confluence of the River Krishna and Tungabhadra in Kurnool District in the northwest and submerged at Srisailam Dam with Sangameswara as presiding deity. This temple has been re-built at Alampur.

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Jamalapuram Temple

Jamalapuram is a small village situated close to Yerrupalem town of Khammam district, Telangana, India. The village has an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Here Lord Venkateswara is manifested in the form of Swayam Bhoo. The temple also boasts of Padmavathi Ammavari Temple, Sivalayam, Ganesh Temple, Anjaneya Swamy temple, Sri Alivelu Amma vari Temple and Ayyappa Swamy Temple. The temple’s location amidst pleasant weather surrounded by lush green hills is an added attraction.

The temple was renovated by Vijayanagara Emperor Sri Krishna Devarayalu and is also called Khammam Chinna Tirupathi. This place also consists of the historical Suchi Gutta where it is believed that Jabali Maharshi earned Lord Venkateswara‘s blessings after penance. These days it is also called Telangana Chinna Tirupathi. The temple is situated at distance of 80 km from the district headquarters of Khammam while tourists coming from Vijawayda need to travel 141 kilometers. An ancient temple in a pleasant environment is one factor that has made the temple popular with tourists. The temple witnesses heavy flux of pilgrims during auspicious occasions and festivals.
Specia pujas are performed on Ekadasi days. The extended time is mostly on Vaikunta Ekadasi and during annual temple festival (brahmostsavam).

Additional Information at http://mandirinfo.com/TempleDetails.aspx?HID=274

Kukke Subrahmanya

Kukke Subrahmanya is situated in a picturesque surrounding at the feet of Western Ghats in the Sullia Taluk of Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka State. The Subrahmanya Temple is one of the famous temples of South India. This place is directly connected by road from Bangalore, Mysore, Mangalore, Udupi, Dharmasthala and other places. It is surrounded by Kodagu district in the east, Puttur Taluk of Dakshina Kannada district in the west, Sakleshpur of Hassan district in the north, and Sullia, the Taluk headquarter in south. Direct buses are moving between Subrahmanya and these places.

Subramanya used to be called as Kukke Pattana in the past. In the 'Shankara Vijaya' Anandagiri observes that Sri Shankaracharya camped here for a few days during his religious expedition (Digvijaya). Shankaracharya referred to this place as 'Bhaje Kukke Lingam' in his 'Subrahmanya Bhujangaprayata Stotram'.

Sri Subrahmanya kshetra has been brilliantly described in the 'Thirthakshetra Mahimanipurana' chapter of the Sahyadrikhanda comprised in the Sanatkumara Samhita of Skanda Purana. This kshetra is situated in the banks of the river 'Dhara' which originates in the Kumara mountain and proceeds to the western sea. Sri Shanmukha Swamy after vanquishing Tarakasura and other Asuras washed his weapons of destruction in this thirtha and hence the name Kumaradhara is derived from this episode.

Sri Kshetra is on the river bank of Kumaradhara. Born to annihilate the demonic forces. Kumaraswamy Killed Tarakasura and other Asuras in the battle to Kumaraparvatha with his from this sibling Ganapathi. Devendra had decided to give away his daughter Devasena to him on “Margashira Shudda Shasti”. Accordingly the marriage took place on the banks of Kumaradhara Thirtha. Bestowing his grace on “Sarpa Raja” Vasuki, who was doing Thapasya at that time. Kumaraswamy assured to dwell along with Devasena in him. Since then, it is behind that Lord Shanmukha (Skanda) in his spiritual presence is residing with Vasuki in the shrine.

Kukke Subrahmanya, one among the seven holy places created by Parashurama is mythologically and historically famous for “Nagaradhane”. Residing with Vasuki, God Subrahmanya showers his divine grace on devotees as the presiding deity of the Kshetra. It is also called “Guptha Kshetra”. “Mruthika Prasada” given here is regarded as sacrosanct. The devotees believe that the holy bath in the Kumaradhara Thirtha and Madesnana eradicate dreaded diseases like leprosy. Diseases related to skin, the devotees firmly believe, get cured here. God Subrahmanya has earned an honorific title “Annadana Subbappa”. Thousands of devotees receive Annadana everyday here. The devotees find solace here after performing “Sarpasamskara”, Naga Prathiste”, “Ashlesha Bali” for sarpa dosha, which causes barrenness / infertility, skin disease, blindness, bhoomidosha etc. God Subrahmanya is the destroyer of the sorrows f innumerable Janmas receives the Sevas of devotees done with devotion and dedication and fulfills their wishes and hence in Kaliyugh hi is behind as “Prathyaksha God” Devaru.

People affected by / suffering from Sarpadosha, whose diseases were not cured by medication, undertake sevas and these they are able to fulfill their wishes. During Subrahmanya Shasti the devotees participate in Beedhi Madesthana, the remover of their physical and mental problems. Not only that, the performing of Madesthana on Uchista of mass feeding and Uruluseva in the quadrangle are well known vows undertaken in this temple. “We bathed in Kumaradhara, Saw Kukkelinga, fed ourselves the food prepared in cauldron” (Kopparige) is a popular folk saying. Soil taken from anthill (Moola Mruthike) is the main Prasada here.

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Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Devasthanam

Shri Kanaka Mahalakshmi temple, is a historical place with strong religious background connected to the city. Kings of Visakhapatnam were great devotees of Shri Kanaka Mahalakshmi, who is believed to be the personification of Shri Lakshmi. The divine idol is admired and worshipped by the local people as Ammavari. It is believed that Goddess Shri Kanakamalahshmi is considered the family deity of rulers of this area and the present location of the temple was in the ramparts of their fort. This temple area is known as Burujupeta, ever since the statue of Ammavari was found from a well close to Buruju, which means fort.

Sthalapuranam of the Temple:

In so far as Sthalapuranam of this Temple is concerned, there is no authentic information. It is learnt that Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru is the family deity of the then “Rajas of Visakhapatnam”. The locality where the idol was found is called “Burujupeta” since it was near “Buruju” of the “Fort” of the then Rajas.

According to local story, in the year 1912, the Idol of Godess Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru was taken out from the well and it was installed at the center of the road i.e., amidst the Municipal lane. The Municipal authorities, for the purpose of widening the road, have shifted the Idol from admidst the road to a corner of the road. During which period i.e., in the year 1917 the dangerous contagious disease `Plauge’ spread over the town and so many deaths occurred in Visakhapatnam village. The people of Visakhapatnam were afraid of the incident and thought the devastation was due to shifting of idol of goddess `Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi’ and therefore, re-erected Ammavari Idol to its original place i.e., at the center of the road as it existed now. Owing to re-erection, the `Plague’ disease was cured and normalcy was restored. With this, the villagers have a staunch belief that it is all due to miracle of Goddess., and thus from then onwards the Villagers used to worship the Goddess by peforming sevas with much devotion. Further, the people of the vicinity have strong belief that ` Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Ammavaru’ is the `MOTHER OF TRUTH’ and will always bless her devotees by fulfilling their requirements. The lady devotees have staunch belief that the Goddess bless them with “Sumangali”. The devotees of Goddess bring their newly born babies to the temple and keep them at the feet of Goddess and seek blessings.

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Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan

Shri Pragat Din, Shri Ram Navami and Shri Punyatithi are the three most important festivals celebrated by Shri Gajanan Maharaj Sansthan. The innumerable warkaris with their Dindis feel fortunate to participate in these festivals. And Sansthan looks after these Warkaris with great conern to provide them the basic needs with necessary amenities.

Shree’s Samadhi Mandir

Shri Mandir premises & other places
Shri Gajanan Maharaj Samadhi Temple is at the center surrounded by two specious entrance gatesin the north and the west directions respectively.

The Legendary soul Sant Shri Gajanan Maharaj enlightened through his noble incarnation and brought out tremendous change in the lives of numerous people with his spiritual knowledge and power for a short period of 32 years and ultimately foretold in the year 1908 about drawing a line to his incarnated life. They also hinted at this place where exactly the Samadhi temple is located as a source of inspiration and spiritual insight for millions of devotees. Shri Gajanan Maharajin his noble presence gave consent and directed for this Samadhi Temple. In the tunnel the holy existence of living body (Sanjeevan kaya) of Shri Gajanan Maharaj still exists where Shri Hari Patil laid the foundation stone.

The holy existence of this legendary soul in Samadhi Temple blesses and helps for solution to the millions in their difficulties when all optionsare blocked for them.


If all the saints prefer to gather at the holy place Shri Kshetr Pandharpur, (the headquarter of Warkari Sampraday which is the destination for all warkaries, i.e. devotees participating in Dindi or Plkhi, who ultimately aim to meet their beloved deities Viththal - Rukhumai), Shegaon is a perfect rendezvous for all devotees. The saints are truly noble in thier nature. They never discriminate with cast, colour, creed etc. Rather Saints always show a true path to devotees for an ideal and meaningful life. A true philosopher or guide (A true Guru) is the only ideal person who transforms people from their vices to virtues. A Saint is a synonym of pious life and a true devotee is known for his sincere faith.

Shree’s Samadhi Temple has been built in the most attractive marble stones, where the devotees can have distant glimpse of the idol of Lord Gajanana through an arrangement called ‘ Mukh Darshan’ or can directly go through the tunnel to pray and have a glimpse of Shree’s idol very closely. The precious space near the idol in Gabhara enables the devotees to pray and have a soothing glimpse of the omnipotent spiritual idol of Lord Gajanan. The Samadhi temple’s over part has various sculptures of Gods and Goddesses carved in an exquisite manner.

Such a grand Samadhi Temple of Shri Gajanan Maharaj has certainly added a lot in the assists of Shegaon and remains a unique landmark of this holy town.

Shriram Mandir:

Once the devotees get the closer view of shree's idol, they enter in Shri Ram Temple, built above the tunnel. There is a great logic for such a sequence.The way to reach in the kingdom of god is shown by a saint or a Guru. Hence, first the prayer spiritual in carnation of Shri Gajanan Maharaj followed by fascinating marble idols of Lord Shri Ram,Goddess Sita and Shri Laxman, on the pedestal of the beautiful Shri Ram Mandir above the Samadhi place, (Shri Gajanan Maharaj preferred to lay his living spiritual body for eternal meditation - called Samadhi). Some part of the entrance of Shri Ram Mandir has been adorned with golden leaves and some part in Gabhara(a reserved holy place, where lord's idol is kept) is also dignified with the gold and its luster, In this Gabhara, the holy footwear (Paduka) which were regularly used by lord Gajanana and the silver masks are kept and they are used during the temple festivals (Palkhi Sohala) for darshan.

Meeting Hall (Sabha Mandap) :

After the darshan of Shree Samadhi, when the devotees enter in shri Ram temple, there is a magnificent meeting hall (Sabha Mandap) opposite Shri Ram temples Gabhara. This Meeting Hall has the most beautiful pillers carved out of the high quality stone with the highly decorative designs and arch. The most salient feature of the hall is the glimpse of the holy biography of Lord Gajanana- Shri Gajanan Vijay Grantha in the form of pictorial gallery of all 21 chapters (Adhyaya) which precisely demonstrate the incarnated life, blessing and miracles of Shri Gajanan Maharaj who wiped out the tears of numerous people. The coloring and painting of these pillars carved out of the aoncient-stoned look much attractrive. This hall is escorted with Shri Ram Temple and a small but fascinating temple of Lord Hanuman, a true devotee of Lord Shri Ram.

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